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What Are The 5 Main Types of SIA Licence for Manned Guarding?
If you want to hire a security guard in the UK then they need to have a security licence in order to legally deliver the service you require of them. If you buy or use security services then you have the responsibility to check that they hold the correct SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence beforehand.
We are going to talk you through the five main types of frontline SIA licences for manned guarding so you can understand which one’s will apply to your business. The 5 main types are, Security Guarding, Door Supervision, Public Space Surveillance, Close Protection and Cash and Valuables In Transit. However it is useful to note that there are other licences such as Vehicle Immobiliser and keyholding that we will address in future articles.
1. What Is A Security Guarding Licence?
A Security Guarding Licence is required when the worker’s main purpose is to keep property and//or assets secure. Security guards with this licence are often seen patrolling business premises, managing access points and monitoring for any suspicious activity. Under this licence they can also use CCTV to identify a trespassers or protect property. However they are not able to perform other wider activities that are covered by the CCTV monitoring licence which we will touch upon in a bit.
For example, if you hire a security firm to protect your office building the security guards they deploy will need this licence or a door supervision/close protection licence. These licences allow them to patrol the premises, respond to alarms and guard property or valuable assets.
This licence is suitable for general security needs, but it doesn’t cover door supervision or working in venues where alcohol is served.
2. What Is A Door Supervisor Licence?
If your business operates in the night time economy such as a pub, club, bar or events space where alcohol is served, then you will need security staff that hold a Door Supervisor Licence. A door supervisors is trained to handle crowds and keep things under control in more volatile environments. They are also first aid trained and trained in government approved restraint techniques further lowering your liability if a patron gets out of hand and security needs to get hands on. (Although this is always a last resort)
A Door Supervisor’s role generally consists of three major things such as managing queues and controlling access to the venue,. checking IDs and monitoring guest behaviour inside and within the proximity of the venue and lastly handling situations that could involve conflict or safety risks and nipping them in the bud before they escalate.Â
This licence also allows door supervisors to perform the same tasks as security guards, making them versatile for businesses where a bit more a robust training could come in handy.
3. What Is A CCTV (Public Space Surveillance) Licence?
The CCTV Licence is required for anyone operating public space CCTV systems, such as town centres, hospitals, public galleries and shopping centres. If your business relies on this type of CCTV monitoring then you need to be sure that you are using people with this licence..
For example in a busy shopping centre a CCTV operator is able to:
1. Monitor a person’s activity to spot potential theft or suspicious behaviour
2. Use surveillance footage to track the individual and compile video evidence to support investigations
3. Help Police with apprehension via CCTV monitoring and communications and/or evidence if needed
If your business uses surveillance to protect people and property in a public setting then this licence is key.
4. What Is A Close Protection Licence?
A Close Protection Licence is for individuals providing personal security to high profile clients from celebrities to executives. Although a CP officer can be from any work background they tend to have military or police experience. Most people know them as bodyguards as they work to ensure the safety of their clients in a variety of settings, whether that’s at a public event or during private travel.
If you are running a company that needs security to protect high level executives when they travel then hiring someone with a close protection licence is essential. They will be responsible for identifying and managing potential threats, escorting clients safely between locations, planning routes and ensuring safe travel and much more.
Close protection officers are highly trained and experienced in managing risks and many have undergone advanced driving courses making them the go to for businesses that need a more tailored security service.
5. What Is A Cash And Valuables In Transit Licence?
The Cash and Valuables in Transit Licence is for manned guards who are responsible for transporting high value goods, such as cash, jewellery, confidential documents or high value articles. This type of role involves ensuring the secure movement of valuables from one location to another.
For a business handling large sums of money or valuable items such as a bullion dealer or jewellery store, hiring security personnel with this licence is required from a legislative and insurance standpoint. These manned guards are trained to security transport money or valuable, secure vehicles and handle potential threats during transportation.
If your business regularly deals with high-value items, having someone licensed to transport these safely is non-negotiable.
Why SIA Licenses Matter For Your Business
SIA licences matter for any business that uses contract security as it means your business will remain legally compliant and that your assets are protected by qualified, insured professionals. It is also important to note that every business has different security needs so hiring staff with the correct SIA licence will ensure that the security provided matches the risks and demands of your business.
How To Ensure Compliance With SIA Regulations
To ensure your business hires the right security personnel, follow these simple steps:
1. Verify licences: Before hiring any security contractor, ask for proof of their SIA licence. You can also check the status of a licence using the SIA’s public register.
2. Choose the right licenced operative for the Job: Make sure the security staff you hire have the licence that matches their role. For example, a door supervisor licence is necessary if you run a venue where alcohol is served, while a CCTV licence is required for surveillance roles.
3. Consider ACS Security Providers: Working with an Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) accredited company means you’re hiring a provider that meets the SIA’s highest standards for service, training, and compliance.
By understanding the five main types of SIA licences, you can make informed decisions when hiring security contractors. Whether your business needs security guards, door supervisors, CCTV operators, or close protection officers, ensuring your team holds the correct licence is the best way to protect your assets and comply with UK law.
Need help with your security needs? Reach out to discuss how licensed security professionals can make a difference for your business.
